The meaning of Josephine by Brandi Carlile

"Josephine" is a poignant ballad by Jewel, released in 2001 as part of her album "This Way". The song tells the story of a woman's longing for her former lover, Josephine, who has moved on to someone else. With Jewel's distinctive voice and acoustic-driven melody, the song is a heart-wrenching exploration of love, loss, and nostalgia.

The lyrics are deeply personal, with Jewel pouring her emotions into every line. She sings of remembering the good times she shared with Josephine, from "candlelit nights" to "summer days". But beneath the romantic surface lies a deeper pain, as Jewel confesses that she's still holding on to the memories they made together. Her voice cracks with vulnerability as she asks, "Do you remember when our love was new?"

The song's chorus is a hauntingly beautiful expression of Jewel's lingering emotions: "Josephine, I'll never let go / The way it used to be". It's a poignant admission that even though the relationship has ended, the memories and feelings remain, refusing to fade away. Throughout the song, Jewel's guitar work is understated yet effective, providing a simple yet powerful backdrop for her emotive vocals.

Ultimately, "Josephine" is a love letter to a lost love, with Jewel baring her soul in a way that feels both intensely personal and universally relatable. The song has become a fan favorite and a staple of Jewel's live shows, where she often performs it with a raw intensity that draws the audience in. "I'll never let go", indeed – for fans of "Josephine", this song will always be a reminder of the power of love to leave an indelible mark on our hearts.